Portable Shower Costs $700, Promises Luxury on-the-go

Hot showers, like electricity, are a luxury that's easy to take for granted. That all changes after a few nights camping at a music festival, a week toiling at a backcountry job site, or overlanding all summer in the great unknown. An itchy scalp and the vague smell of warm clams suddenly make the idea of spending hundreds on a portable shower seem less absurd.

I've been testing the Hottap Go from Australia-based Joolca while vanlifing to shower after surfing and to wash up after cooking. It features a 12L integrated water tank which is an improvement on other portable showers that require an external container and long, cumbersome hose. The Hottap Go's design allows for a more streamlined user experience.

The device's price point is steep, but for those who value the convenience of a hot shower on-the-go, it may be worth the investment. Why this matters: The Hottap Go's existence and price point speak to a growing trend of luxury camping and van life. As more people adopt these lifestyles, the demand for high-end, portable amenities like the Hottap Go will likely increase.

For developers and businesses, this means an opportunity to cater to a niche market willing to pay premium prices for convenience and luxury. However, questions remain about the environmental impact of these portable showers, particularly if they become widely adopted. As consumers, it's essential to weigh the benefits of such products against their ecological footprint.

The Hottap Go's success will depend on its ability to balance luxury with sustainability.